I think it depends on the person and what they are looking for. But I feel that unless someone says “tell me what to do”, they are just looking for understanding – for someone simply to listen. People run to therapists and forums like this, generally looking for understanding and to be heard. Often people know what to do, but emotions get in the way of logical thinking. If they can vent the emotions, they can see the solution more clearly. Listening costs nothing yet is worth so very much. And telling someone what to do can often make them feel like their emotions don’t matter, and that their problems and concerns are being minimized or “swept under the rug.”

I once had a friend say “is there anything I can do for you?” I responded “you just did it.” The offer of the support was all I needed. Knowing that they were there, just in case, gave me enough strength to continue looking for my own answers.